The Milwaukee Brewers wrapped up their Cactus League action in Mesa, Arizona, with a tough 12-0 loss to the Chicago Cubs. But before you hit the panic button, let’s put things into perspective.
This was a spring training game, and the Brewers were far from full strength. Most of their regulars were already en route to Milwaukee for upcoming exhibition games against the Reds.
On the field, the Brewers leaned heavily on players with limited MLB experience. Starting pitcher Chad Patrick, with just 27 career appearances, took the mound alongside reliever Peter Strzelecki and outfielder Jacob Hurtubise. Meanwhile, many of Milwaukee's top prospects were busy at Hohokam Stadium, participating in the Spring Breakout game against the A’s.
The Cubs, on the other hand, played with a lineup packed with regulars, including stars like Michael Busch, Alex Bregman, and Ian Happ. Cade Horton got the start on the mound for Chicago.
Chad Patrick had a rough outing, giving up seven runs on six hits over four innings, finishing his spring with an 11.68 ERA. But again, let’s not read too much into spring stats. Peter Strzelecki allowed two runs in 1 2/3 innings, while Garrett Hodges, Tanner Gillis, and Stiven Cruz also saw action on the mound.
Offensively, six Brewers managed hits, with Eric Brown Jr. delivering the only extra-base hit, a double. Dylan O’Rae and Jacob Hurtubise each swiped a base, but the team struggled with runners in scoring position, going 0-for-6.
A highlight of the day was seeing Jadyn Fielder, Prince Fielder’s son, step up as a pinch-hitter. Although he struck out in his lone at-bat, it was a special moment for the young second baseman.
Looking ahead, the Brewers will host the Reds for a pair of exhibitions at American Family Field before Opening Day against the White Sox. Aaron Ashby is set to start against Cincinnati on Monday, with first pitch at 6:40 p.m.
CT, broadcast on 94.5 ESPN Radio and the Brewer Radio Network. As the regular season approaches, Brewers fans have plenty to look forward to.